Beauty of animal feathers inspires local artist

September 07, 2007|By Cassandra Brown, American News Writer

Mikki Caspers was so struck by the beauty of pheasants that she decided to start crafting with their feathers nearly 20 years ago. The rural Hecla woman uses feathers from pheasants, guinea hens and wild turkeys to create items like decorated pine cones, framed art and Christmas tree eggs. "I've always thought that you can't improve on nature. The pheasant is such a gorgeous bird. Being artistic, I wanted to capture some of that (beauty). I use my feathers like paint," Caspers said. Caspers collects feathers that blow through her yard. She never kills an animal for the feathers but says she will use feathers from animals that have been killed by predators or that have died on the nest. Caspers also gets feathers from hunters who have brought pheasant pelts to her. She then puts Borax on them and allows the pelts to dry for later use. Caspers said new design ideas just come to her as she works. "I lay it out before I do my gluing and go with what looks right. Every (item) is different," Caspers said. A single item may take between two and four hours to complete. Caspers said because feathers can be very messy, she often puts one layer of feathers on before attempting to add another row. "Sometimes I put one row on, let it dry and come back. Glue and feathers can really (make) a mess," Caspers said. Caspers has sold her handiwork to people all over the United States. She has even sent some to China. Hunters are her biggest customers, especially those from out of state. "People in South Dakota don't appreciate it so much as hunters that come from away. To anyone else, it's pretty impressive," Caspers said. Caspers' crafts can be found on the South Dakota Made Web site at www.madeinsouthdakota.com. She also has items in various museums throughout South Dakota.